New police chief starts in Caln

CALN –The township’s new Chief of Police, Joseph G. Elias, took the oath of office on Thursday, April 25.

Elias joined the department on April 15. Lt. Jeffery Nash served as the acting chief from late August through April 14.

Judge Ronald Nagle hosted the swearing in ceremony at the Caln Township Municipal Building. State Reps. Chris Ross, Becky Corbin and Joe Hackett presented Elias with a certificate from the state house. Elias was supported by Caln police officers and staff, the Board of Commissioners, township staff, and friends and family.

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“I’m looking forward to leading a great department with an excellent reputation for service, and working with township leadership, the community, and our regional partners to ensure we do everything possible to make Caln Township a safe and prosperous place for families and businesses to live and grow,” Elias said.

Elias was a major in the Pennsylvania State Police. He served with the state police for 28 years, including patrolling Chester County during his first six years of service as an officer with Troop J Avondale.

“I feel very fortunate and excited to have been afforded the opportunity to return to the area where my law enforcement career began back in 1985,” Elias said.

Elias recently served as the executive director of the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission, which is responsible for training standards, curriculum development and certification of all municipal police officers throughout the state. He retired from his position in early April.

He is a graduate of Penn State University and the FBI National Academy.

“The Board of Commissioners went through a thorough search process to select Chief Elias. He brings significant experience, professionalism and leadership qualities to the position of Chief of Police in Caln Township,” Township Manager Greg Prowant said. “We are very pleased to have him on board.”

The Caln Police department has 18 full-time officers serving a community of 14,000 and the Thorndale business district.